Assistive software funded through the Disabled Students’ Allowance: consultation response

On Tuesday 16 June 2026, we submitted a response to the consultation on assistive software funded through the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). The consultation sought opinions on its proposals to transition to a funding model, which assumed free assistive software would meet the needs of disabled students.

Our response opposes many of the proposals, and we emphasise the limitations of free assistive software and its impact on equity for disabled students. We’ll keep an eye on the outcomes of the consultation, and once the funding model is formalised, we’ll inform members whether some of our suggestions have been implemented.

Here’s our response to the consultation on behalf of our members.